After reading an article by another Type-A Mom, I discovered the Miss Britt blog. In one of her recent posts, Miss Britt lists ten things she wants to teach her children. I was inspired to create a list of my own, as I think all moms should. What is it you most want your child to gain from life? What do you hope to teach them? Even if you never share the list with your children, at least you will have a document to help you remember the knowledge you want to pass along to them.

Here is a sampling of my own list…

You are a part of something greater than yourself

I will not ever force you to believe in a deity or practice a religion. But you must always recognize that we are part of something greater than ourselves. Perhaps that something is divine or maybe it is simply the power of our collective humanity. Acknowledging this will keep you humble. I do, however, reserve the right to withhold Christmas presents until you go to church, no matter how old you are. After all, I am still your mother.

Love your brothers

When your father and I are gone, your brothers will be the foundation of our family. No one will ever know you or understand you like they do. No matter what happens, never turn your backs on one another. There will come a day that you will all need each other.

See the world while you are young

There is so much to be learned by expanding your horizons. Travel. Explore. Wander the planet and soak in everything you can. Live great adventures. If you manage to do this as part of a study abroad program, you might even get us to foot part of the bill (but let’s not mention that idea to Dad just yet). Don't forget that you have a responsibility to preserve the wonder that you see for the generations that follow you.

I love you more than life, but…

Somehow I have been lucky enough to have the privilege of having you in my life. I cannot imagine anything more perfect than you. However, there will be times that I will hide in the bathroom for a moment alone while you search the house for me. Don't take it personally.

Every day you take one step further away from me

Since the moment you were conceived, each passing day means that I am one day closer to having to let you go. You will grow up. You will become independent. You will build a life of your own, and I will no longer be an essential part of your every day. Your children will do the same to you. Watching this process brings me overwhelming joy coupled with truly profound heartache. So as you walk away, please, tread lightly.

You come from a long line of great people

We are not descended from statesmen or scholars. Our family is made of immigrants and natives who worked and sacrificed to build their lives. Greatness is not defined by the status one achieves, but by the character of the life one lives. You are descended from people who were truly selfless—who understood the cost of sacrifice and still willingly gave. People who were defined by their principles, not their politics; people who believed in something and held to those beliefs. Our family understands what loyalty and integrity are really all about because ours have been challenged and survived. This is the legacy you must carry. They are big shoes to fill. But you are my sons, and I know that you too can achieve greatness.

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